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Putting a finger on plant stress response

A zinc finger domain in Arabidopsis protein SIZ1 is essential for transcriptional regulation of genes required for abiotic stress responses, including cold, salt, and drought stresses. The domain's absence leads to impaired SIZ1 function, stunted plant growth, and increased sensitivity to stressful conditions.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 5, 2020

Scientists create 'Evolutionwatch' for plants

Researchers used historic and modern plant genomes to measure the rate of evolution in a wild plant. They found that Arabidopsis had been introduced to North America by Europeans around 1600, with new mutations appearing over the past 400 years. These findings provide insights into the genetic paradox of invasion.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 21, 2018

New study uses computer learning to provide quality control for genetic databases

A new study uses computer learning to create a standardized atlas that can automatically annotate samples, including lost metadata such as tissue type. By combining data from over 7,000 samples and 200 labs, the work represents a way to leverage publically available 'omics data while improving quality control.

A taxi ride to starch granules

The discovery of Protein Targeting to Starch (PTST) reveals the crucial role of a molecule in transporting Granular Bound Starch Synthase (GBSS) to starch granules, necessary for normal amylose synthesis. The research found that PTST is essential for GBSS stability and function.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 26, 2015

How does evolution work?

Researchers investigate plant molecular structures for climate adaptation, discovering novel pathways subject to natural selection. The project sheds light on convergent evolution and potential applications in ecology and agriculture.

Researchers block plant hormone

Scientists identify a molecule that blocks the effect of jasmonic acid, a plant hormone involved in flower formation, root growth and defence against herbivores. The discovery was made using a biological selection process involving intact plants.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateAug 19, 2014

The secret of short stems

Researchers found that plants with semi-dwarfism in wild Arabidopsis species have a mutated GA20ox1 allele, similar to those in rice and barley varieties bred for high yields. The mutation alters the gibberellin biosynthesis pathway, but other genes compensate for its effects.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 12, 2013

Model plant misled scientists about multicellular growth

A study by the University of Leeds found that Arabidopsis thaliana lacks a crucial protein called SMG1, which is essential for animal multicellular growth. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about plant genetics and highlights the importance of studying multiple models to avoid extrapolating from a single example.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateOct 22, 2013

Does your salad know what time it is?

Scientists found they could use light to coax postharvest vegetables to produce more cancer-fighting antioxidants at certain times of day. This study suggests that storing fruits and vegetables in dark conditions may reduce their ability to keep daily rhythms.

SourceRice University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 20, 2013

Defying the laws of Mendelian inheritance

Researchers found that Arabidopsis thaliana plants exhibit genetic traits from older generations, contradicting Mendelian inheritance. New experiments support these findings, providing evidence for novel DNA-based genetic phenomena and implications for plant biology and agriculture.

SourceFaculty of 1000·JournalF1000Research·DateFeb 4, 2013

Turning off small RNA

Researchers at Michigan Technological University have created a method to disable small RNAs, which are crucial for our genetic makeup and can affect plant growth. By using this technique, scientists can study the function of any small RNA in cells.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 1, 2012

Little plant tells big stories

A study published in Nature has decoded the genetic variation of Arabidopsis thaliana, a model plant used in research. By analyzing 19 strains of this plant, scientists have gained insight into its ability to adapt to different environments and climates.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature·DateAug 28, 2011